Politics
Politics

Fulton commissioners approve 17 percent tax hike

By
Aug 6, 2014

The Fulton County Board of Commissioners today approved a proposed 17 percent property tax increase. The vote was 4-3.

Commissioners proposed the tax hike to pay for countywide services like libraries, courts and social services. It would cost the owner of a $275,000 home an extra $140 a year if the property’s value remains unchanged.

But with property values rising in some areas, the tax hike could be steeper. A 10 percent increase in value, combined with the tax hike, would cost that same owner of that $275,000 house an extra $270 a year.

Supporters say the proposed tax increase and budget cuts approved earlier this year are needed to balance Fulton’s $625.4 million general fund budget. Without the tax hike, they say, steeper cuts will be needed.

Opponents say the proposal violates a tax cap imposed on Fulton County by the General Assembly last year. They say the county should cut spending and live within its means, rather than raise taxes.

About the Author

David Wickert writes about the state budget, finance and voting issues. Previously, he covered local government and politics in Gwinnett and Fulton counties. Before moving to Atlanta, he worked at newspapers in Illinois, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.

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